28

Hanney Community

Shop Mon to Sat - 9am to 5pm

Post Office hours Mon Wed Thurs Fri

9am to 1pm Tues 9am to 12 noon

Tel Shop - 867408 Post Office - 868320

lsquoFacebookrsquo See - and join - the

West Hanney and East Hanney Community

Facebook page lsquoHanney Newsrsquo

Be sure to read it cover to cover without fail every

month It contains so much useful stuff itrsquos quite scary

and is also the wittiest parish mag in Hanney

lsquoThe Hanney Websitersquo

Visit the Hanney website regularly

wwwthehanneysorguk

Hanney War Memorial Hall

To book the Hall the Committee Room or the

Olde Hanney Room contact Sue Garner on 868684 or

07890 953101 hwmhhanneygmailcom

Submissions Advertising and Charges To submit an article or letter please send it to the Editor preferably by email to hanneynewsgmailcom or via the box in the Hanney Community Shop by the 15th of the month for inclusion in the following monthrsquos issue Organisations are charged pound12 pa for entry into the lsquoRegular Eventsrsquo or lsquoClubs and Societiesrsquo section pages 26 and 27 To advertise please ring or email the Editor jimstaggbtinternetcom - tel 01235 867500 Four line adverts in lsquoBusiness Adsrsquo are charged at pound3 per month or pound23 per annum Block ads are available for pound6 pound12 or pound18 per month pound60 pound120 or pound180 per annum Other sizes by negotiation

Disclaimer Hanney News Association (HNA)

and its members take no responsibility for anything that appears in Hanney News or its

lsquoflyersrsquo be it comment opinion information or advice Neither does HNA warrant the work undertaken services provided or advice given by

any of its advertisers The Editor reserves the right to alter omit or hold over copy to a future issue

All material is copyright

Hanney Community Association To find out more visit

wwwfacebookcomhanneycas twittercomHanneyCAs

wwwhanneycommunityassociationcouk or email

itsyourvillagehanneycommunityassociationcouk To enquire about becoming a member

membershiphanneycommunityassociationcouk

Hanney Lottery December Winners

Jane Bradley Hayes - pound100 Tracy Underwood - pound100

Judith Hockaday - pound50 Joanna Brettell - pound25

Not got a number yet or want to

have additional numbers Just call Hilary on 868590

Final Thought I am not a banana because my genetic code dictates that I am human However we humans do share 50 - 60 of our DNA with bananas

This means that some people are 10 more banana than others

Hanney News Number 494 January 2017

Please remember all

little folk born between 1912 and 31813 need to be registered for a primary school place by 15th Jan 2017 even if they already attend a nursery attached to the school Easiest way is online at Oxfordshiregovukadmissions or ring 01865 815175

Big up for Jamie RoachI read an article in the

Oxford Mail recently which mentioned East Hanneyrsquos Jamie Roach Jamie whose company Hanney Glazed have a well deserved reputation for high quality work and fair prices had heard the story of an 85 year old man in Sutton Courtenay who was robbed and beaten in his own home after the intruders kicked in his front door Friends and neighbours rallied round and Jamie installed a brand new and much sturdier door at no charge Well done Jamiehellipa very splendid gesture say I

lsquoVibrantrsquohellipThe accountancy firm Grant Thornton have recently produced an

index of the most lsquoVibrant Economies in Englandrsquo Oh err It ranks 324 local authorities and puts our very own Vale of White Horse at number 8 Not bad eh Herersquos what they said about how they reached their conclusions lsquoOur Vibrant Economy Index not only considers prosperity but also dynamism and opportunity inclusion and equality health wellbeing and happiness resilience and sustainability and community trust and belongingrsquo Though they didnrsquot mention us by name there is no doubt in my mind that the decision by lsquoHanney News Global Internationalrsquo to locate our HQ here in Hanney - we had offers from Paris Dubai and Kingston Bagpuss btw- pushed the Vale significantly higher up the rankings as we continue with our corporate mission to spread all that good stuff they listed above

Well I never

A Youth Club in Hanney You may be aware that some fine folk of this parish specifically Becci Lawson and Sharon Geraghty are in the early stages of organising a youth club to happen on a regular basis here in Hanney This is an ambitious and very worthwhile project If you can offer help of any sort Irsquom sure they would be very pleased to hear from you Becci can be contacted by email rlawson27outlookcom or ring 07970 684404 and Sharon by email at sharoon1livecouk

lsquoDragons Denrsquo comes to St Jamespage 11

2

Hanney News Global International West Hanney HQ Oxfordshire UK Editor - Jim Stagg 867500 jimstaggbtinternetcom

Treasurer - Chris French 868876 chris-frenchhotmailcouk Distributor - Paul Haines 868811 paulhainesppluscom

Editorial Friends another new year is upon us and one of my first tasks is to sincerely thank Phil and Fi at the Plough in West Hanney

for all their hard work over the last year and a half They leave us this month for pastures new and we wish them every happiness and success for the future Apropos of nothing I read somewhere recently that more young people watch David Attenboroughs fabulous TV show lsquoPlanet Earthrsquo than the lsquoX Factorrsquo - not knocking the latter of course - but if true thatrsquos good news methinks Talking of animals you will have already met on the front page the newest member of our team lsquoLemmiersquo the lemur Not to be confused with Lemmie the recently deceased bass player of heavy metal rock legends Motorhead this Lemmie is in fact a Madagascan ring-tailed lemur and he lives at the Cotswold Wildlife Park I urge you to pay him a visit it is a great place if you like animals This month we have been able to include something from Matt Barber Leader of our District Council and known to many of us Itrsquos about the newly adopted Local Plan and worth a read (East Hanney Parish Council also mention the plan on

page 6) If by the way youre one of the folk who would like to regularly hear or read the rsquopearlsrsquo of Matt and maybe our MP Ed Vaizey too then please note the panel at the bottom of page 3 Matt and Ed both produce monthly newsletters that you can get by email Incidentally Matt didnrsquot mention in his latest missive about the Vale being the eighth most vibrant economy in England Either he didnrsquot know or hersquos being his usual modest self but he - and we all - can be proud of ourselves Letrsquos spread the lurve people And still on Matt congrats to him for just adding lsquoDeputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valleyrsquo to his extensive roll of duties If you glimpse across to page 3 to the lsquoand further aheadrsquo section yoursquoll see that the WI are holding a fashion show at the end of Marchsounds exciting though Irsquom yet to be invited to strut my stuff on the catwalk Perhaps theyrsquore booking me through my agent or simply unaware of my previous career on the glamour runway Talking of treading the boards our lovely luvvies the Hanney Drama Group are at it again soon - see page 17 for details of the serious dose of uber culture they have lined up for all of us who appreciate an occasional wander in the garden of thespian delights This is a combined effort with the Domino Players so Irsquom hoping for some free pizza during the interval Geddit Happy New Year my friends

27

WANTAGE CHORAL SOCIETY rehearses every Tuesday at CofE School Newbury St (next to Comrades Club) at 730pm New voices always welcome Contact Judy Gibbons 868516 wwwwantagechoralsocietycouk email wantagechoralsocietyyahoocouk

WANTAGE GARDENERS ASSOCIATION 9am - 12noon every Saturday Feb-Sept See website for details of all they offer wwwantagegardenersorguk

WILTS amp BERKS CANAL TRUSTEAST VALE BRANCH First Wednesday in the month Social Meeting at the Hanney British Legion 8pm Details contact Brian Stovold on 763072 wbctorguk

NORDIC WALKING CLASSES WITH LISA FROM OXFORDSHIRE FITNESS daytime evening and weekend classes available please call Lisa on 07885635367 email lisaoxfordshirefitnesscouk or visit wwwoxfordshirefitnesscouk for more details or to book a taster session

HANNEY WI (WOMENS INSTITUTE) meet the second Thursday of the month (not Aug) 730 - 930 in the Olde Hanney Room New members are welcome contact Angela Morris Tel 223245 Email angiemntlworldcom or Helen Evans 868542

Regular Events HANNEY LITTLE RAINBOWS Activity and fun for 0 - 3 yr olds meet every Monday 930 - 1130am At the Village Hall Contact Hayley Aram for details 07900 696 921

OXFORDSHIRE FITNESS CLASSES Mondays 615 - 715pm Legs Bums amp Tums at the British Legion Thursdays 615 - 715pm Pick and mix exercise at the British Legion Call Lisa on 07885635367

YOGA (HATHA) ndash MIXED LEVEL at Hanney War Memorial Hall Fridays 930-11am pound45 for 6 sessions pound9 for drop-in Ring Eleanor on 01865 863316 or email eleanorwadgeyahoocouk to book or for more information

HANNEY CHAPEL Every Sunday Morning Service at 1030 (and ldquoExplorersrdquo for children) - creche available Evening Service at 6pm All welcome ldquoJumpstartrdquo club for 6-10 year olds Thurs 6pm Friday Club for 10-15 year olds at 730pm both in term time Thursday Lunch amp Listen first Thurs in month 1030am Contact Bob Pritchard on 868864

HANNEY PRE-SCHOOL meets term time in the Elliott Building in the grounds of St James School For 3+ year olds Monday - Friday 9am ndash 2pm For 2+ year olds Mon - Fri 9am - 2pm Contact Hanney Pre-School on 07759181330 or see wwwhanneypreschoolcouk

OLDE HANNEY ROOM COFFEE SHOP Tuesdays 1000-1130am Everyone welcome for tea or coffee - chat and a raffle

BINGO every Sunday RB Legion Hall 8pm Cash prizes All over 18 welcome

PILATES CLASS Wednesdays 6 -7pm and Fridays 915 - 1015am (term time only) at the Royal British Legion East Hanney Novices and Improvers welcome To book your place or for more details please contact Pippa Carey (STOTT Pilates teacher) on 07941 260427 or at

pippathrive-nutritioncouk

26

Clubs and Societies HANNEY BOWLS CLUB Wednesdays 730-1000pm and Thursdays 200-400pm Contact 868145

RBL WOMENrsquoS SECTION MEETINGS are held at 800pm on the second Monday of the month in the RBL 66 Club New members very welcome

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION BRANCH meets bi-monthly on the 4th Wednesday of September November January March May and July in the RBL Club NEW MEMBERS WELCOME

HANNEY BADMINTON CLUB meets every Thursday in the HWMH 8-10pm We welcome new members Call 868256 for details

HANNEY TENNIS CLUB New members welcome Club sessions Sunday 10am onwards Tuesday 7pm - just turn up For coaching adult or junior contact andyaitkengrowingthegamecouk More information wwwhanneytenniscluborguk or call 868261

HANNEY HISTORY GROUP meets 8pm every 4th Tuesday New members and visitors welcome non-members pound3 For further info ring Bill Orson 868859

HANNEY BELLRINGERS meet every Wednesday St James Church West Hanney from 730 pm until 9 pm Beginners very welcome Contact Jean Hazard for more details (868883)

HANNEY GUIDES meet on Mondays 630 -800 during term time All girls welcome aged 10+ contact Catherine Tysoe 867356 HANNEY BROWNIES (aged 7+) meet on Tuesdays in British Legion Hall from 600 - 730 Contact Jacquie Donald RAINBOWS (5+) in Grove on Wednesday and Thursday Further details and waiting lists wwwgirlguidingorguk

HANNEY GARDENING CLUB meets on the first Monday of each month in the HWMH 745 for 800pm Tea and coffee followed by a talk Visit wwwhanneygardeningcluborguk

HANNEY WHEELERS CYCLING We meet on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month at 930am

prompt (10am after the clocks have gone back for the winter) at the Hanney WMH New

cyclists you will be warmly welcomed for recreational local cycling with essential coffee stop Call Bob Wilson 868389 or bobwilson300hotmailcom

HANNEY WINE CIRCLE meets on the 2nd Tuesday each month wwwhanneywinecircleorguk

HANNEY CRICKET CLUB Indoor nets available in March amp April followed by outdoor training every Thursday evening throughout the summer from 615pm at the rec League fixtures every Saturday occasional friendly Sunday games amp mid week T20 Contact Secretary Jerry May 07714 033651 or first XI captain Mark Tracey 07775 503169

HANNEY YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB trains at the rec on Thursday night We play in the Oxford Mail Youth League and have teams from age 5 up If you would like to join us please contact Paul on 07510 435 508 hyfcfootygmailcom or visit our website hanneyyouthfccouk

HANNEY TABLE TENNIS CLUB qualified coaching to a high level or just play Cadets juniors and seniors pound2 per night league matches every week just turn up 630 every Thursday Richard 07908 673367 WANTAGE MALE VOICE CHOIR rehearses at HWMH on Tuesdays 730-930pm The Choir is looking for more men who enjoy a good sing to join their existing number of 30 or so Call Geoff (868440) or Nick (768249) wwwwantagemalevoicechoirorguk

3

Contact details for our political chums Ed Vaizey MP -lsquoYou can contact me on any matter at the House of Commons SW1A

0AA 020 7219 6350 or dicksonceparliamentuk

Vale of White Horse District Council leader Matt Barberrsquos email and website addresses councillormatthewbarbercouk

wwwmatthewbarbercouk

Noticeswhatrsquos happening this month

Sundays 1st 8th 15th 22nd and 29th St James Church Services details page 15

Weds 4th St James School Term 3 beginshooray

Thursday 5th Hanney Table Tennis Club New Year Gift FREE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP

for all new players who turn up ndash come and have a go and enjoy yourselvesrdquo

Mon 9th Hanney Gardening Club 745pm Village Hall lsquoWildflowers of Britainrsquo by

Chris Chadwell

Thurs 12th 730pm Village Hall Hanney WI lsquoA History of the London Undergroundrsquo

by Chris Caddy

Tues 24th 8pm Village Hall Hanney History Group lsquoThe Creation and History of the

Architecture of the Pendon Landscapersquo by David Day

Thurs 26th 230pm Village Hall Hanney Senior Citizens Gentle exercise to music

Friday 27th Hanney Table Tennis Club Home Matches at the Village Hall Come and watch your village teams compete in the League Free entry Just turn up Please be seated by 715

hellipand further ahead

Thurs 9th Feb St James School Term 3 endssob sob

Thurs 9th Feb - Sat 11th Feb Hanney Drama Group lsquoComedies of Errorsrsquo Page 17

Mon 20th Feb St James School Term 4 begins Yipee

Sat 25th Feb 8pm Charity Sixties Night Steventon Village Hall details on page 10

Thurs 30th March Hanney WI Fashion Showdetails next month

Thank you to everyone who supported the Harry Potter Christmas Bazaarhellip A special thank you to

Dews Meadow for their generosity and to everybody who donated prizes We made a HUGE profit of over pound2000 We are very grateful to the Black Horse who donated pound250 from the firework display The Friends of St James School would like to wish everybody a happy and peaceful 2017

4

Many thanks to

everyone who was able to support the recent Christmas gifts and holly sale that Bob Wilson and I organised It was a rather impromptu affair and a much needed semblance of order was brought to the occasion by Georgia Newman Miri Brundrett and Phillipa Kendall all three of whom work tirelessly for our community in a variety of ways As well as taking a stall for their lsquoHandmade in Hanneyrsquo business they supplied yummy refresh-ments and helped us raise pound124 to donate to St James Church Bob proved a consummate salesman selling over pound80 worth of the prickly green stuff My wifersquos jugs proved very popular - shersquos a potter - as did the other items on sale including jewellery bow ties and the like We do indeed have some extremely talented folk in our villages All agreed that it was a very jolly community event and wersquoll try and do the same next year only bigger and more organised

Herersquos some of the team who helped Angela Cousins produce her lovely book lsquoBread Boots and Coalrsquo that we reviewed last month Copies still available L - R Martin Trowell Jonty Jay Sue Wright Angela Cousins Jim Stagg and Michael Calderbank

Entries in the Hanney Gardening Club Christmas Wreath Competitionmine didnrsquot win Shame

Photographer Steve McKechnie

25

Professional Window Cleaning

Carpet Cleaning Service

Also Gutter Clearance

PostPre-occupancy Cleans and Conservatory Valets

For a thorough and reliable

service call Tim

Mobile 07725 002777

Hanney Spice Finest Authentic Indian Cuisine

Opening Hours

Sun - Thurs 12 noon - 2pm 5pm - 11pm Fri and Sat 12 noon - 230pm and 5pm -

1130pm

Tel 01235 869007 869090 wwwhanneyspicecouk

School Rd West Hanney OX12 0LA

Take-away available

24

ARBOCAREARBOCARE Professional Tree Care

Landscaping and Ground Maintenance

Felling Reductions amp Pruning Dangerous Trees Dismantled Stump Grinding amp root removal 40ft Hydraulic Platforms

Hedge Trimming Tree Planting Woodchip amp Mulch Supplied

CALL FREE 0808 155 5815 OFFICE 01235 813 619 24 HR MOBILE 0778 811 136

5

Part-time Bar amp Restaurant Staff From the end of January we will be offering part timejob share positions serving

behind the bar and in the restaurant of

The Plough West Hanney Bar staff have to be aged 18 years or older Previous experience is not required as full

training will be given These positions will suit people who wish to work flexible hours and days during

lunchtimes or for evening and weekend work We also need a cleaner for the pub for one hour in the late morning every day This

could also be a job share position If you want to find out more please contact Chris French on chris-frenchhotmailcouk

or Phil Larder on philiplarderbtinternetcom

HANNEY FILM NIGHT in the OWEN WRIGHT CINEMA HWMH FRIDAY JAN6TH730 for 800pm

pound6 conc pound5 Bar amp Doors Open 730

ldquoThe Crowrsquos Eggrdquo

Director M Manikandan Stars Ramesh J Vignesh Aishwarya Rajesh Indian Tamil Comedy-Drama Film With Sub-Titles

ldquoM Manikandanrsquos latter-day parable mines both laughter and tears from the

struggles of two young brothers to put food on the tablerdquo

ldquoAbsolutely delightful insightful comedy from India - easily one of the best

world movies of 2015rdquo

COME AND SING in HARMONY Do you love to sing but are not actively involved in music making at the moment Do you sing already but would like to try something new in 2017

Harmony InSpires an all-female a Cappella

chorus based in Appleton invites women of all ages to

join a FREE evening course in a Cappella harmony

singing on 8th 15th and 22nd February 2017

Find out more at wwwharmonyinspiresorg or email

singharmonyinspiresorg

24

ARBOCAREARBOCARE Professional Tree Care

Landscaping and Ground Maintenance

Felling Reductions amp Pruning Dangerous Trees Dismantled Stump Grinding amp root removal 40ft Hydraulic Platforms

Hedge Trimming Tree Planting Woodchip amp Mulch Supplied

CALL FREE 0808 155 5815 OFFICE 01235 813 619 24 HR MOBILE 0778 811 136

5

Part-time Bar amp Restaurant Staff From the end of January we will be offering part timejob share positions serving

behind the bar and in the restaurant of

The Plough West Hanney Bar staff have to be aged 18 years or older Previous experience is not required as full

training will be given These positions will suit people who wish to work flexible hours and days during

lunchtimes or for evening and weekend work We also need a cleaner for the pub for one hour in the late morning every day This

could also be a job share position If you want to find out more please contact Chris French on chris-frenchhotmailcouk

or Phil Larder on philiplarderbtinternetcom

HANNEY FILM NIGHT in the OWEN WRIGHT CINEMA HWMH FRIDAY JAN6TH730 for 800pm

pound6 conc pound5 Bar amp Doors Open 730

ldquoThe Crowrsquos Eggrdquo

Director M Manikandan Stars Ramesh J Vignesh Aishwarya Rajesh Indian Tamil Comedy-Drama Film With Sub-Titles

ldquoM Manikandanrsquos latter-day parable mines both laughter and tears from the

struggles of two young brothers to put food on the tablerdquo

ldquoAbsolutely delightful insightful comedy from India - easily one of the best

world movies of 2015rdquo

COME AND SING in HARMONY Do you love to sing but are not actively involved in music making at the moment Do you sing already but would like to try something new in 2017

Harmony InSpires an all-female a Cappella

chorus based in Appleton invites women of all ages to

join a FREE evening course in a Cappella harmony

singing on 8th 15th and 22nd February 2017

Find out more at wwwharmonyinspiresorg or email

singharmonyinspiresorg

6

East Hanney Parish Council Firstly a belated Happy New Year to all residents of East and West Hanney As I am sure you are all aware the Vale of White Horse DCrsquos Local Plan 2031 part 1 has now been adopted This has defined the Districtrsquos 5-year land supply and removed East Hanney as a strategic site and thus any larger developments would be considered outside the requirements of the Plan The Local Plan part 2 is now in its final stages of drafting and will be out for consultation fairly early in 2017 The PC will consider it in the same way as Part 1 and respond as appropriate The PC has commissioned a company to install three new dog waste bins on the playing field The sites were identified with reference to local knowledge and in consultation with local dog owners All three bins were installed just before Christmas and are at the north and south ends of the avenue of trees and close to

the field gate by the overflow car park for the Hall These bins will be emptied by the company that is installing them on Mondays and it is hoped that the locations prove convenient to dog walkers The PC will be discussing its annual budget in January and will again consider the requirement for a precept Any precept raised will be used to ensure the facilities in the Village are maintained to a sufficient standard including the pieces of play equipment in the playground To this end the PC will be reconsidering the requirements to repair the tube slide of the play tower Parish Council meetings are open to the public and are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 8pm The agenda will be available to view on the notice board outside the Community Shop on the Councilrsquos website and on Facebook a week in advance

The next meeting dates are 4th January and 2nd February 2017

East Hanney Parish Council

Chairman Jim Triffitt 868314 (Allotments) Vice Chairman Stewart Scott 868503 (Neighbourhood Plan and Technical Issues)

Councillors Paul Aram 868858 (Playground and Playing field)

David Kirk 07740029059 (Neighbourhood Action Group) Judy Long 868425 (Footpaths)

Stephen McKechnie 868823 (Village furniture and annual litter pick) Clerk

Guy Langton 867403 gl-ehpcoutlookcom

Parish Council website httpwwweasthanneyparishcouncilorguk Facebook httpswwwfacebookcomgroups436816943170450

23

HANNEY GLAZED WINDOWS DOORS

CONSERVATORIES SOFFITrsquoS FASCIArsquoS AND GUTTERING

BESPOKE GARDEN ROOMS GRP ROOFING

OFFICE01235 869101 MOB07990632377

hanneyglazedgmailcom

Alan Turner Carpet Cleaner

Fabulous Free Spotter

(amp free refills with every clean)

Tel 07878 601150

A J Griffin Ltd

Handmade Furniture

amp Joinery

wwwalexgriffinfurniturecom

Tel 01865 351555

Mob 07748 967083

22

MOTOVATION

Cars 4 x 4rsquos Vans Motorhomes Motorcycles Servicing - Repair - Exhaust -

Air-conditioning - Electrical - Clutch - Welding - Timing belt - Brakes - Suspension - MOT

Courtesy car (subject to availability) Free local collection and delivery No job too big - no job too small so pick up the phone

and give us a call

Brad Davey Unit C Oxford Rd East Hanney OX12 0HP Tel 01235 867455 The Complete A - Z of Car Care

Childminder based in

West Hanney Dbs checked certificates in paediatric first aid safeguarding food safety and childcare Drop offcollect from St James school Please contact me Lucy Palmer for more information

Phone - 07810 385341 or email -

lucykpalmergmailcom

7

West Hanney Parish Council At the time of writing we have not been able to reach agreement with Scottish and Southern Energy as to a method of making the new supply pole on The Green safer for pedestrians On health and safety grounds we have therefore written to them requesting the removal of this pole which was placed on parish owned land without any consultation or permission We await a response A public meeting was held in the village hall on Monday December 12th to discuss the application by Beaumont Developments (part of Sweetcroft Homes) to build a further 18 homes fronting School Road At least 60 villagers attended and as expected all were against this further erosion of the green area between East and West Hanney and were unanimous in the decision to put up a robust fight against the proposed development Sweetcroft decided that they had to try for this new site due only to the Vale planning committees decision to grant permission for 15 homes on the opposite side of School Road Contrary to some opinions Sweetcroft will not go back on their agreement to gift the 75 acre field adjacent to the community woodland to the village This is actually a legal S106 commitment agreed as part of the planning permission granted for 8 houses in The Old Orchard and the legal documents for transfer to West Hanney Parish Council are currently being produced The Vales refuse contractors have advised that if during periods of adverse weather conditions it is not possible to collect waste on the scheduled day we should leave our bins out for two further days If not collected by then please take them back in until the next scheduled Green or Grey collection day Having said that during the Christmas period 28th December - 13th January it must be the revised collection day only If bad weather halts collections on the specified day during this period no further attempt will be made until the next normal collection in two weeks Confusing yes but understandable

A VERY HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR TO ALL

Next Meeting Tuesday 24th January 730 St James Bell Tower

Your Councillors- Chris Surman (Chairman) - 868749 Edward Wilkinson - 867316

Kay Sayers (Cllr amp Clerk) - 868146 Trevor Brettell - 868459 Graham Garner - 868684

8

FRESH FITNESS Personal Training Pilates

Pre amp Postnatal Fitness Friendly Female Personal

Trainer To arrange an informal no obligation chat about your

fitness requirements and how I may be able to help

please contact Claire 07766 231 110

fresh-fitnessoutlookcom

wwwfresh-fitnessuk

D BEACH Member of Guild of Bricklayers

City amp Guilds Qualified EXTENSIONS BRICKWORK

GARDEN WALLS FOUNDATIONS

PAVING FREE ESTIMATES

REFERENCES AVAILABLE PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE

MANY YEARS EXPERIENCE Tel 01235 868965

Mob 07913 680676

wwwdavidbeachbuildingser-vicescouk

Cares for people suffering from Alzheimerrsquos amp Dementia

Provides a safe amp friendly environment Gives respite amp support for carersrelatives

Situated behind Wantage Parish Church (1-3 The Cloisters)

Open Wednesday Thursday amp Friday 9am to 3pm

Telephone Teresa on 01235 760428

Email enquiriesoctobercluborguk

Website wwwoctobercluborguk

Pop in during opening hours

21

discos for all occasions wwwcgeventscouk

email infocgeventscouk

The Black Horse East Hanney 01235 867179 Main St East Hanney OX12 0JE Every Day - Lunch and Evening Special Any 2 courses for pound1795 - also applies Sunday lunch Daily Pub Classics

Friendly Village Pub Real Ales Fresh Food Served Daily

Wantage Vale

Windows Ltd Evolving since 1991

Tel 01235 867167

Infowantage-vale-

windowscouk

Installers of all types of

quality replacement

windows amp doors

Installations carry FENSA

10-year guarantees

20

DRC Construction All aspects of carpentry amp

purpose made joinery amp design

Extensionsalterations

maintenancehome improve-

ments plasteringdry lining

drivewayspatiospaths roofing

groundworklandscaping

No job too small

CALL DAVID ON 07732 516364 or 01235 767078

wwwdrcconstructioncouk FOR A FREE QUOTATION

STEVE MILSOM

PAINTING amp

DECORATING

interiorexterior free estimates

mob 07960 644991

Email

mils68aolcom

HAZEL LEE

Painter amp Decorator

Interior amp Exterior

Local and Reliable

Fully Insured

Tel 07866 509 683 hazellee78hotmailcouk

Gabirsquos Cleaning Service If you need help to keep your house tidy

please donrsquot hesitate to ring Gabi

References available

Cleaning Ironing and Carpet Cleaning

07771 391209

Kilbey amp Clarke

Estate Practitioners Wills amp Will storage Lasting Power Of Attorney Protected Property Trust Probate Funeral Plans

Local friendly Professional Home visits to suit you

Nigel Kilbey Aff SWW 07734051258

01235 868266

kilbeyandclarkebtinternetcom

9

THE PLOUGH 01235 868909

Mon - Fri 12 Noon - 230pm 530pm - 11pm

Sat and Sun12 Noon -11pm

Thank you to all the villagers who gave Fi amp myself so much support since June 2015 So much fun fine food and great drinksand many friends made For all those who did not like what we did sorrycanrsquot please everybody Hope you will be very happy soon See you at the AGM if not before Happy New Year Phil amp Fi

wwwplough-west-hanneycouk

MampJ DIDCOCK INDEPENDENT

FUNERAL SERVICE

15-17 Park Road Didcot OX11 8QL

24 hour personal service

Private chapel of rest Tel 01235 510292

Email enquiries didcotfunerladirectorscouk

wwwdidcotfuneraldirectorscouk

Ron Walters Electrical

All types of electrical

work undertaken including Part P

Tel 01235 868875 Mob 07989 342182

Email ronrwelectricalcom

10

Amanda Wall has been in touch to tell me about an event shersquos organising to

help with some very worthy fundraising shersquos undertaking by running the London Marathon in 2017 Well done Amanda Herersquos her story I first took up running in 2014 and have since raised pound700 running half marathons for a local charity I am now taking on a bigger challenge raising money for Age UK by running the London Marathon 2017 and holding a Charity 60rsquos Night to contribute towards this As a physiotherapist I have seen first hand the benefits of some of Age UKs projects such as lsquoDementia Oxfordshirersquo and the physical activity service lsquoGeneration Gamesrsquo I wholly promote opportunities to exercise for older people and those living with long term medical conditions Money raised means more funds to support schemes locally which can help to get more people moving and enjoying life to the full Friends family and neighbours you know may benefit from such ventures Please support me in achieving this huge physical challenge which will hopefully help many others to achieve theirs If you can support Amanda herersquos her Just Giving account web address

wwwjustgivingcomfundraisingphysioamanda

Continuing our policy of bringing you fluffy kitten stories - herersquos a super snap of a very lovely young couple who recently got wed and boy do they look happy Aaah They are Nik Shepherd and his bride Rachel - nee Turner of East Hanney We of course wish them both every happiness for their future together May I also compliment whoever threw the confetti - or maybe itrsquos actually a small twig with several leaves on it - that adorns Nikrsquos head adding significantly to his tonsorial elegance If you have a feel-good story we wanna hear it fluffy kittens not essential

19

The Vale of White Horse District Council has recently

adopted the Local Plan 2031 (Part 1) ensuring communities are better protected from speculative develop-ment

Following the Council meeting where the Local Plan was formally agreed the final version can now be published

The Vale is now considered to have a five year housing land supply and major developments should now proceed in accordance with the Plan

The council will now use the Local Plan (Part 1) to determine planning applica-tions throughout the district This means the Vale Council will have much greater control over what developments are allowed to be built I am delighted that wersquove been given the go-ahead to adopt Part 1 of the Vale Local Plan 2031 It means that after a process that has taken several years and has seen communities across the Vale contributing we are now in a position to have much

greater control over all development in the Vale Adopting the Local Plan not only gives the Council more control over where housing is delivered but also makes it easier to secure the much needed infrastructure funding that should go with it This will be enhanced further when we adopt the Community Infrastructure Levy as well In Spring 2017 Vale of White Horse District Council will consult on the preferred options for the Local Plan 2031 (Part 2) ndash this will cover allocating strategic sites to meet Oxford Cityrsquos unmet housing need and other sites to ensure that the Valersquos own housing needs are met in full

Matt Barber Leader Vale District Council

A Red Admiral Butterfly

18

Neil Wright

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Repairs to most makes of

Washing Machines Cookers Dryers

Dishwashers etc

For a fast reliable service Tel 01235 764185 or 07981

941221

Mark J Heyes Building amp Property

Maintenance

Tel (01235) 869012 Mob 07887 507083

Carpentry Kitchens

Plastering Brickwork Tiling amp General

Maintenance

F I N C H F L O O R I N G

Always Professional and Courteous Providing Unparalleled Precision and Care

Masterfitter and National Finalist

0 1 2 3 5 7 7 2 1 2 8 - 0 7 9 0 0 6 8 1 0 8 8

pau lf inchf loor ing com - www f inchf loor ing com

7 St Johns Road Grove Wantage OX12 7PP

11

lsquoNo One Should Have No Onersquo is an initiative started by Age UK aimed at making folk aware just how devastating loneliness and isolation can be Its effect on mortality is reckoned to be as damaging as the well known risk factors such as obesity and smoking One way that Age UK Oxfordshire works to combat the problem is through their lsquoPhone Friendsrsquo service Volunteers make approximately 500 calls per week to some of the loneliest and most isolated people in society Some of them are home or even bed-bound unable to take advantage of other services such as lunch clubs and often feeling forgotten and overlooked as a result They receive at least one call a week from one of the caring and committed Phone Friends volunteers If becoming a volunteer is something you might be interested in

herersquos some detailshellip Calls are made from the Banbury office during 2 hour shifts when you will phone the same 8 lonely people every week It may be possible for calls to be made from your home and if you are unable to commit to a weekly shift you may still be able to help covering for sickness and holidays sometimes at short notice Full training takes place at the Banbury office If you would like to know more like to join the team or come in for a chat and a look round please call Paula Donaldson 07557 038278 It is vital that this service the lsquoInformation and Advicersquo line and other Age UK Oxfordshire services receive funds in order to continue If you would like to help us please visit httpswwwjustgivingcomcampaignscharityageukoxfordshirenoone or text AUKO33 pound10 (or an amount of your choice) to 70070

lsquoDragons Denrsquo at St James Schoolhellipherersquos a couple of snaps of some of

the young entrepreneurs I met the other day at St James School as I became a lsquoDragonrsquo with pound500 to invest in their lsquoChristmas Lights Decorationrsquo inventions An impressive array of sparkly items were demonstrated and explained to me and my three fellow dragons - Kathy Ethelstone Will Harvey and Gill Thompson - by the children who had all put a great deal of work and imagination into the project Well done kids and well

done Heather Richards their teacher a splendid effort all round (Heather also took these snaps)

18

Neil Wright

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Repairs to most makes of

Washing Machines Cookers Dryers

Dishwashers etc

For a fast reliable service Tel 01235 764185 or 07981

941221

Mark J Heyes Building amp Property

Maintenance

Tel (01235) 869012 Mob 07887 507083

Carpentry Kitchens

Plastering Brickwork Tiling amp General

Maintenance

F I N C H F L O O R I N G

Always Professional and Courteous Providing Unparalleled Precision and Care

Masterfitter and National Finalist

0 1 2 3 5 7 7 2 1 2 8 - 0 7 9 0 0 6 8 1 0 8 8

pau lf inchf loor ing com - www f inchf loor ing com

7 St Johns Road Grove Wantage OX12 7PP

11

lsquoNo One Should Have No Onersquo is an initiative started by Age UK aimed at making folk aware just how devastating loneliness and isolation can be Its effect on mortality is reckoned to be as damaging as the well known risk factors such as obesity and smoking One way that Age UK Oxfordshire works to combat the problem is through their lsquoPhone Friendsrsquo service Volunteers make approximately 500 calls per week to some of the loneliest and most isolated people in society Some of them are home or even bed-bound unable to take advantage of other services such as lunch clubs and often feeling forgotten and overlooked as a result They receive at least one call a week from one of the caring and committed Phone Friends volunteers If becoming a volunteer is something you might be interested in

herersquos some detailshellip Calls are made from the Banbury office during 2 hour shifts when you will phone the same 8 lonely people every week It may be possible for calls to be made from your home and if you are unable to commit to a weekly shift you may still be able to help covering for sickness and holidays sometimes at short notice Full training takes place at the Banbury office If you would like to know more like to join the team or come in for a chat and a look round please call Paula Donaldson 07557 038278 It is vital that this service the lsquoInformation and Advicersquo line and other Age UK Oxfordshire services receive funds in order to continue If you would like to help us please visit httpswwwjustgivingcomcampaignscharityageukoxfordshirenoone or text AUKO33 pound10 (or an amount of your choice) to 70070

lsquoDragons Denrsquo at St James Schoolhellipherersquos a couple of snaps of some of

the young entrepreneurs I met the other day at St James School as I became a lsquoDragonrsquo with pound500 to invest in their lsquoChristmas Lights Decorationrsquo inventions An impressive array of sparkly items were demonstrated and explained to me and my three fellow dragons - Kathy Ethelstone Will Harvey and Gill Thompson - by the children who had all put a great deal of work and imagination into the project Well done kids and well

done Heather Richards their teacher a splendid effort all round (Heather also took these snaps)

12

17

MARK J HEYES BUILDING amp PROPERTY MAINTE-NANCE Carpentry Kitchens Plastering Brickwork Tiling amp General Maintenance Tel 869012 mobile 07887 507083

ANDREW ALDER ASSOCIATES planning Supervisors fully detailed drawings all Local Approvals obtained site support amp project management Phone 763742 for a free consultation

REPLACEMENT WINDOWS Doors Patio Doors Conservatories amp uPVC Fascias Cladding High standard local tradesman Repairsinsurance work Tel Ian Vickers Wantage Vale Windows 867167

SKINNER FENCING For all your fencing needs Gates made to measure trees lopped gravel shingle delivered For free quote call Shaun 867352

VALE PEST CONTROL for rats mice wasps nests etc Competitive prices Call Arthur 01235 768343 or 07882 978530

WINDOW CLEANER Reliable All the year round If interested tel 762397 or 07855 290514

SERVICES

COMPUTER PROBLEMS Need help with your PC Wonrsquot start Hard disk full Got a virus Want to set up a wireless router or extend your network Call Comp-tech on 01865 820749 or 07870 755637

IF KEEPING YOUR BOOKS and completing your VAT return is stopping you from running your business confidential help is at hand Also typing services incl Audio Tel Jo Pepler 07799 620299

BABYSITTING - Dependable St Helens student available to babysit during term time Friday evenings weekends and more flexible during school holidays pound5 hour Contact 07921 527990

BABYSITTING 01235 869100 Reliable 16-year-old Headington schoolgirl living in East Hanney Any day of the week except Tuesday pound7 per hour

DOG WALKING PET SITTING Do you need someone to walk your dog or look after your pets If so please call Martin on 07757 692253 for your friendly local pet service

Hanney Drama Group and Domino Players

Present

An evening of TWO One Act Plays

with a sandwich of Musical Entertainment

Alright on the Night by Robin Wilson

Pride at Southanger Park by Rupert Bean

edited by Michael Green

9-11 February 2017 Hanney War Memorial Hall Tickets pound8 no conc Light Interval Snack Available Available at Hanney Community Shop

16

FOOD DEWS MEADOW FARM SHOP open Mon - Thur 830am - 7pm Fri 830 - 6pm Sat 830 - 5pm Sun 10 - 4pm Pork dry cured bacon ham sausages amp burgers Free range chicken beef and lamb Delivery Call Jane 868634

JA CATERING Entertaining the easy way Let us take care of your Dinner Parties Special Occasion Buffets Childrens parties Funerals Tel 07812 370796 for more details

GARDENING PROFESSIONAL GARDEN SERVICES maintenance landscaping tree and hedge work Courteous friendly knowledgeable Free estimates no VAT 01235 848163 07796 532356

GARDEN DESIGN practical friendly advice garden design and planting plans construction and plant supply Contact Mary Ann Le May tel 850523 or email maryannblissettsnet wwwmaryanndesigncouk

LAWNMOWERS amp GARDEN MACHINERY Services and Repairs Tel 762397 or 07855 290514

RACHEL THE GARDENER qualified experienced hardworking and cheerful (and so modest) Tel 07867 571682 (Wantage) Also plant sales wwwRachel-the-Gardenercouk

TREEWORKS Tree crown reductionsthinning liftingre-shaping tree removals hedge trimming fruit tree pruning Local professional arborist 01235 258575 07771 538575 wwwtrottertreeworkscouk

HORSEY STUFF ASTI EQUESTRIAN 01367 710288 wwwasti-equestriancouk Situated between Denchworth and Goosey On-line store saddlery shop open 7 days Riding lessons from age 3 Grass amp DIY livery

HEALTH amp BEAUTY FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Treatment and management of corns verrucas callus skin and nail conditions and a complimentary massage Home visits Anita Elsley 01235 771238 or 07969256149

EPIL PRO PAINLESS EFFECTIVE HAIR REMOVAL No needles no scarring The results are amazing Tel Denise 767670 07779 403488

BEAUTY amp MASSAGE Waxing massage Academie facials manicure pedicure lash amp brow tints

electrolysis aromatherapy wedding makeup Denise ITEC BABTAC 767670

PILATES - YOGA range of classes at Manor Farm Marcham over 10 years experience of teaching Pilates also offers sessions on reformer and studio equipmentandreainnerstrengthpilatescouk 07939 523083

TREAT YOURSELF NAILS by KATE - I am qualified in CND Shellac UV cured nail polish For more information please call on 07970984014 or visit my page httpswwwfacebookcomtreatyourselfkate

MOTORING MOTOVATION Car servicing and repairs for all makes of vehicle car and light commercial Free collection and delivery in Hanneys Call Brad Davey on 867455

ONE WAY DRIVING SCHOOL Locally based Ex police trained approved driving instructor Learn in air conditioned Corsa Competitive prices amp discounts for block bookings Call Keith on 07521 216802 or see wwwonewaydrivingoxfordcouk

ORCHARD MOTOR COMPANY ndash USED CAR SALES Cars bought for cash Call Paul Francis on 07976 919475 wwworchardmotorcompanycom

MUSIC LOCAL BAND - ldquoTHE BACK 4rdquo Pop and rock classics from the 1950s to today Parties weddings etc Call Brian on 869100 or brianparsonshotmailcouk MUSIC TEACHERS REQUIRED MUSIC LESSONS offered All standards and ages 07835 635650 wwwnathansnotesinfo

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CARPET amp UPHOLSTERY CLEANING by Grimebusters your local specialists Your carpets dry within the hour Free estimates (01235) 555533 or (01865) 726983

FRILFORD DECORATORS 07775 690523 01865 392866 Internal amp External Decorators References available Proprietor Mr A Bunce

JEM CHIMNEY SWEEPING No fuss no mess no problem (01865) 772996 or (01865) 400244

lsquoLOFTYrsquo can fit a loft ladder to put your loft safely within reach 10-year manufacturerrsquos guarantee Aluminium British made Tel LOFTY Pete Whittington 01235 848681 07780 600818 for a quote

Business Ads

13

Letters Dear Editor Harry Potter and the committee on fire Even as an adult I found this yearrsquos school fete particularly enchanting The St James school committee completely surpassed themselves with the detail that went into organising a fantastic event They really are unsung heroines of the village and give their time and talent to making our lovely village school a great place that holds impressive fund raising events for all to enjoy I would like to say thank you From Gemma Mark Charlie amp Darcey Jackson Dear Editor On behalf of us all at St James I would publically like to thank Bob Wilson and Jim Stagg for their inspired idea to hold a Holly amp Christmas Gifts Sale to raise funds for the church Loo Fund I understand that such an event was held in times past and was very popular so thank you for re-instating it and generating new enthusiasm to make this a part of the Hanney calendar again and an enjoyable way to spend a Saturday morning and support local enterprises at the same time God bless John Durant Vicar

The Winter Lane footpath My regular monthly email enquiry to Bellway Homes and the Highways Dept of the Oxfordshire County Council has elicited this response dated 15th December from Matt Walsha Bellways regional engineer I quote lsquoWe have some positive news as we have now received approval from the Land Drainage Authority for the ditch works and the S278 legal agreement is currently underway with OCC for the footway works Once the legal agreement is concluded we will be able to undertake the works on site I would hope the legal agreement will be complete within 4-6 weeks but this is obviously subject to the Solicitors Based on this I would estimate a start date for the constructions works of FebruaryMarch next year We will keep pushing for completion of the legal agreement and will update you with a proposed start date for the works once we are in a position to confirm this If you have any questions in the meantime then please let me knowrsquo Call me naiumlve but I actually believe they do want to get this job doneno really

lsquoYoursquore naiumlve Wherersquos my dinnerrsquo

16

FOOD DEWS MEADOW FARM SHOP open Mon - Thur 830am - 7pm Fri 830 - 6pm Sat 830 - 5pm Sun 10 - 4pm Pork dry cured bacon ham sausages amp burgers Free range chicken beef and lamb Delivery Call Jane 868634

JA CATERING Entertaining the easy way Let us take care of your Dinner Parties Special Occasion Buffets Childrens parties Funerals Tel 07812 370796 for more details

GARDENING PROFESSIONAL GARDEN SERVICES maintenance landscaping tree and hedge work Courteous friendly knowledgeable Free estimates no VAT 01235 848163 07796 532356

GARDEN DESIGN practical friendly advice garden design and planting plans construction and plant supply Contact Mary Ann Le May tel 850523 or email maryannblissettsnet wwwmaryanndesigncouk

LAWNMOWERS amp GARDEN MACHINERY Services and Repairs Tel 762397 or 07855 290514

RACHEL THE GARDENER qualified experienced hardworking and cheerful (and so modest) Tel 07867 571682 (Wantage) Also plant sales wwwRachel-the-Gardenercouk

TREEWORKS Tree crown reductionsthinning liftingre-shaping tree removals hedge trimming fruit tree pruning Local professional arborist 01235 258575 07771 538575 wwwtrottertreeworkscouk

HORSEY STUFF ASTI EQUESTRIAN 01367 710288 wwwasti-equestriancouk Situated between Denchworth and Goosey On-line store saddlery shop open 7 days Riding lessons from age 3 Grass amp DIY livery

HEALTH amp BEAUTY FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Treatment and management of corns verrucas callus skin and nail conditions and a complimentary massage Home visits Anita Elsley 01235 771238 or 07969256149

EPIL PRO PAINLESS EFFECTIVE HAIR REMOVAL No needles no scarring The results are amazing Tel Denise 767670 07779 403488

BEAUTY amp MASSAGE Waxing massage Academie facials manicure pedicure lash amp brow tints

electrolysis aromatherapy wedding makeup Denise ITEC BABTAC 767670

PILATES - YOGA range of classes at Manor Farm Marcham over 10 years experience of teaching Pilates also offers sessions on reformer and studio equipmentandreainnerstrengthpilatescouk 07939 523083

TREAT YOURSELF NAILS by KATE - I am qualified in CND Shellac UV cured nail polish For more information please call on 07970984014 or visit my page httpswwwfacebookcomtreatyourselfkate

MOTORING MOTOVATION Car servicing and repairs for all makes of vehicle car and light commercial Free collection and delivery in Hanneys Call Brad Davey on 867455

ONE WAY DRIVING SCHOOL Locally based Ex police trained approved driving instructor Learn in air conditioned Corsa Competitive prices amp discounts for block bookings Call Keith on 07521 216802 or see wwwonewaydrivingoxfordcouk

ORCHARD MOTOR COMPANY ndash USED CAR SALES Cars bought for cash Call Paul Francis on 07976 919475 wwworchardmotorcompanycom

MUSIC LOCAL BAND - ldquoTHE BACK 4rdquo Pop and rock classics from the 1950s to today Parties weddings etc Call Brian on 869100 or brianparsonshotmailcouk MUSIC TEACHERS REQUIRED MUSIC LESSONS offered All standards and ages 07835 635650 wwwnathansnotesinfo

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CARPET amp UPHOLSTERY CLEANING by Grimebusters your local specialists Your carpets dry within the hour Free estimates (01235) 555533 or (01865) 726983

FRILFORD DECORATORS 07775 690523 01865 392866 Internal amp External Decorators References available Proprietor Mr A Bunce

JEM CHIMNEY SWEEPING No fuss no mess no problem (01865) 772996 or (01865) 400244

lsquoLOFTYrsquo can fit a loft ladder to put your loft safely within reach 10-year manufacturerrsquos guarantee Aluminium British made Tel LOFTY Pete Whittington 01235 848681 07780 600818 for a quote

Business Ads

13

Letters Dear Editor Harry Potter and the committee on fire Even as an adult I found this yearrsquos school fete particularly enchanting The St James school committee completely surpassed themselves with the detail that went into organising a fantastic event They really are unsung heroines of the village and give their time and talent to making our lovely village school a great place that holds impressive fund raising events for all to enjoy I would like to say thank you From Gemma Mark Charlie amp Darcey Jackson Dear Editor On behalf of us all at St James I would publically like to thank Bob Wilson and Jim Stagg for their inspired idea to hold a Holly amp Christmas Gifts Sale to raise funds for the church Loo Fund I understand that such an event was held in times past and was very popular so thank you for re-instating it and generating new enthusiasm to make this a part of the Hanney calendar again and an enjoyable way to spend a Saturday morning and support local enterprises at the same time God bless John Durant Vicar

The Winter Lane footpath My regular monthly email enquiry to Bellway Homes and the Highways Dept of the Oxfordshire County Council has elicited this response dated 15th December from Matt Walsha Bellways regional engineer I quote lsquoWe have some positive news as we have now received approval from the Land Drainage Authority for the ditch works and the S278 legal agreement is currently underway with OCC for the footway works Once the legal agreement is concluded we will be able to undertake the works on site I would hope the legal agreement will be complete within 4-6 weeks but this is obviously subject to the Solicitors Based on this I would estimate a start date for the constructions works of FebruaryMarch next year We will keep pushing for completion of the legal agreement and will update you with a proposed start date for the works once we are in a position to confirm this If you have any questions in the meantime then please let me knowrsquo Call me naiumlve but I actually believe they do want to get this job doneno really

lsquoYoursquore naiumlve Wherersquos my dinnerrsquo

14

Dear Friends

The Christian Church has traditionally taught that marriage is a lifelong commit-ment and covenant between one man and one woman based on Christrsquos values of faithful love caring support mutual pleasure and creative nurture Jesus called his followers to proclaim a renewing love marked by forgiveness and resurrection This love gives us spiritual renewal eternal life and a personal relationship with God which is illustrated by marriage at its best The Church of England from its outset has always acknowledged that relationships break down and unfortunately marriages fail Indeed it has sought to offer pastoral support to those who remarry and is aware that some wish to remarry in church So in effect the church wants to give two contradictory messages that marriage is for life but all too often marriage breaks down so forgiveness and new starts are required The Church of Englandrsquos Bishops over the years have given various directions but essentially always allow the local ministers to decide whether they would marry a couple following a divorce I have been consulting with the PCC members of our four churches in the Vale benefice who have a variety of different views and have waited till we appointed our associate vicar before any change is made Having discussed this issue with Alec who is prepared to consider marrying those who have been divorced the process with which we will now be following outlined below is in line with the bishops guidelines (which can be found on the Church of Englandrsquos website) 1 Initial enquiry and explanation of choice Interview(s) with a member of the

clergy 2 Interview(s) with a retired member of the clergy 3 Consultation between the clergy and retired clergy regarding what decision

should be made 4 Informing the couple of the decision We will still offer a Blessing of Marriage but there may be circumstances when it is possible to explore having a wedding in Church for those who have been divorced Whatever your views on this issue and whatever you are facing this coming year I do pray that you will know the Lord lsquos guidance peace and blessing in 2017 John and Alec Vicars of the Benefice of the Vale

15

The Christingle Service St James Church Photographer Chris Aram

SERVICES in January - Sundays at 930am

1st ndash Revd Geoff Maughan 8th 15th amp 29th Parish Eucharist 22nd Family Church

Tuesdays at 1000am Said Eucharist in the Chancel

Vicar Revd John Durant 766484 vicarvalebeneficeorguk Associate Vicar Revd Alec Gill 07739 563894 vicaralecvalebeneficeorguk Office (10 ndash 12 Mon ndash Fri) 771479 officevalebeneficeorguk

Church Wardens

Stuart Cakebread 868590 cakebreadbtinternetorguk Chris Reason 868375 chris_reason_hanneyhotmailcom